Oxford Street pedestrianisation: everything you need to know about the new era for London's West End

One of London’s most iconic shopping streets becomes more walkable than ever today, as the long-awaited Oxford Street pedestrianisation is implemented.

As of Monday 26 October, there will be no vehicle traffic between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, freeing up more space for the millions of Londoners and tourists who use the route each year. The pedestrianisation comes ahead of the Oxford Street Christmas lights switch-on in early November – a key festive date in the city’s cultural calendar.

TFL’s new traffic-free rules free up almost a kilometre of the street from private vehicles, buses, taxis, cycles, scooters and pedicabs. Mobility scooters are the only exception throughout the day, while freight and servicing vehicles are permitted on serviced routes between midnight and 7am.

Vehicles that enter the traffic-free zone may be subject to Penalty Charge Notices (PCN) that’ll be issued by TfL enforcement officers and security support, while parking is no longer permitted across the newly designated area. In preparation, some parking bays, Blue Badge parking bays and taxi ranks have been relocated to nearby streets.

It’s hoped that the changes will create a safer and more spacious place in the heart of the capital, with the upcoming festive season set to be the first test.

Next year, TFL plans to raise the road surface to pavement level, creating a single-level surface in pedestrianised areas. The first two sections are set to be completed in spring 2027, creating new public squares that may double up as event spaces. There are further plans to make Oxford Street greener, too, and create more corners to relax between store-hopping.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said, “I’m hugely excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street coming to life from today. It is a truly momentous occasion for the capital. I encourage everyone to explore and enjoy the newly traffic-free street, as we create a new vibrant destination that welcomes Londoners and visitors from around the world.

“For centuries, Oxford Street has reinvented itself, adapting to changing times and helping shape British culture along the way. There has been talk of pedestrianising Oxford Street for decades. After so many false dawns, and now working with a Government who share the scale of my ambition, I’m proud that we’re finally unlocking a new era for the street.

“The transformation will turn the nation’s high street into a world-class pedestrian space, where flagship retailers will sit alongside new shops and workplaces – and we’ll bring exciting new experiences to the street, from sport to fashion and cultural events. Revitalising Oxford Street will boost jobs and economic growth in the capital, unlock the full potential of this key part of the West End, and help build a better, greener and more prosperous London for everyone.”